This park protects some of the most geologic, biologic, and cultural landscapes in the world. Starting at sea-level and going all the way up to the peak of Mauna Loa at 13,677' above sea level, this park includes the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Here, you will be able to learn about this special place and its connection to the Hawaiian culture.
Current Park Alerts
Live from the National Park Service · Official park site →
Plan Your Visit
Hours & Season
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day including holidays.
Entrance Fees
- $30 – Entrance - Private Vehicle
- $25 – Entrance - Motorcycle
- $15 – Entrance - Per Person
Weather
The weather the summit of Kīlauea (~4000' elevation) varies daily and may be rainy and chilly any time of the year. Temperature varies by elevation. At the summit of the volcano, temperatures may be 12 to 15 degrees cooler than at sea level. The coastal plain at the end of Chain of Craters Road is often hot, dry, and windy with the possibility of passing showers.
Things to Do
Park Bookstore
Hawaiʻi Pacific Parks Association operates the official park bookstores at the Welcome Center and the Kahuku Unit.
Kūpinaʻi Pali (Waldron Ledge)
Walk along an old road damaged by an earthquake in 1983 and get panoramic views of Kaluapele
Devastation Trail
Stroll on a paved path through a recovering landscape that was buried by falling cinder from the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption.
Nāhuku Lava Tube Trail
Walk through lush rainforest and see a cave where a river of lava flowed 500 years ago.
Backcountry Camp at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Reservation requiredLooking for solitude or adventure? The vast backcountry on Kīlauea and Mauna Loa provides ample opportunities.
Visit Kahuku: Palm Trail
Hike or bike to some of the best views of Kahuku and along the fissure of the 1868 Mauna Loa eruption
Getting There
Address: 1 Crater Rim Drive Hawaii National Park HI 96718
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is located on the Island of Hawai‘i. From Hilo: 30 miles southwest on Highway 11 (45 minute drive); from Kailua-Kona: 96 miles southeast on Highway 11 (2 to 2.5 hour drive), or 125 miles through Waimea and Hilo via Highways 19 and 11 (2.5 to 3 hours).
Get driving directions → Official NPS directions →Where to Stay – Campgrounds
Kulanaokuaiki
9 sites · $10/night
Kulanaokuaiki is located off Hilina Pali Road at 3,200 feet (975 m), there are nine walk-in campsites with picnic tables. There is an accessible vault toilet; …
Nāmakanipaio
16 sites · $15/night
Nāmakanipaio Campground is located 31.5 miles south of Hilo on Highway-11 at 4,000' elevation. It is a large, open grassy area with tall eucalyptus and 'ōhi'a …
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
The entrance fee for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is $30. See Plan Your Visit above for vehicle, per-person, and annual-pass rates.
Do I need a reservation or permit to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Some entry windows or activities at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park require a reservation or permit. Check the Current Park Alerts and Things to Do sections above, and confirm on the official NPS site before you go.
When is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park open?
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day including holidays.
What are the best things to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Popular things to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park include Park Bookstore, Kūpinaʻi Pali (Waldron Ledge), Devastation Trail, Nāhuku Lava Tube Trail. See Things to Do above for photos and details.
Are there campgrounds in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
Yes — Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has 2 campgrounds, including Kulanaokuaiki, Nāmakanipaio. See Campgrounds above for site counts, fees, and booking links.